impending problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impending problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem that is about to happen or is looming on the horizon. Example: "The team is preparing for the impending problem of resource shortages as demand continues to rise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The impending problem I see for our culture, however, is increasingly whether any pain or suffering will be regarded as worthwhile.

The Guardian - Opinion

He had known for about a minute that there was an impending problem.

BBC

However any adaptation of a classic seismic code in design faces an impending problem of differences in spectral content and duration between the surface records of the rockbursts and natural earthquakes, as well as in their different risk definitions.

International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences

Below, you can find the text of my Grace Hopper where I talk about this impending problem, as well as the steps we can take to ensure women take their rightful place in shaping the future.

Huffington Post

Whereas it is of vital importance not only to begin anti-infective therapy as soon as possible but to also choose the adequate anti-infective drug [ 4], the impending problem is the growing number of multi-resistant bacteria [ 5].

Critical Care

Use downloads only from a reputable seller or site and take special care of pop-ups or unsolicited notices warning you of an impending problem.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

He may have gotten the timing wrong, but he was right about the impending problems.

The New York Times

Military personnel experts and even internal National Guard surveys, however, have warned of impending problems with retaining forces.

The New York Times

None of this is uncommon, of course, or illegal -- unless regulators find evidence that executives knew of undisclosed, impending problems when they sold.

The New York Times

And while supporters of the ban continue to warn of impending problems, advocates for open service are planning a host of celebratory events, ranging from book releases to film openings to gay service members going public with their identities.

The New York Times

While his critics have contended that regulators missed warning signs about impending problems, he said he had little visibility into certain businesses, like A.I.G., until it was too late.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "impending problem", consider the context to ensure the severity and imminence of the issue are appropriately conveyed. If the problem is less severe, consider alternatives like "forthcoming issue".

Common error

Avoid using "impending problem" for minor issues. This phrase suggests a significant and unavoidable difficulty, so reserve it for situations that warrant such a strong description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impending problem" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "impending" modifies the noun "problem". It denotes a situation where a problem is expected to occur soon. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "impending problem" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe a difficulty that is expected to occur soon. Ludwig AI supports this assessment. While not extremely common, it finds use across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general information sources. It's important to use this phrase when the problem is truly significant and unavoidable, avoiding its application to minor issues. Consider alternatives like "forthcoming issue" or "approaching difficulty" for less severe situations. Remember to use the phrase to warn, inform, or encourage preparation for an expected difficulty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approaching difficulty

Replaces "problem" with "difficulty", softening the negative connotation slightly.

forthcoming issue

Substitutes both words, using synonyms that maintain a sense of inevitability.

looming crisis

Emphasizes the severity of the situation, implying a potentially disastrous outcome.

brewing trouble

Uses a more informal and figurative expression, suggesting that the problem is developing gradually.

oncoming challenge

Focuses on the proactive aspect of facing a difficulty that is coming.

threatening situation

Highlights the potential danger or harm associated with the problem.

developing concern

Indicates that the problem is still in its early stages but warrants attention.

near-term obstacle

Specifies that the problem will arise in the immediate future and will impede progress.

immediate setback

Focuses on the problem's capacity to cause an obstruction in the short term.

coming complication

Emphasizes the aspect of making something more difficult or involved.

FAQs

How can I use "impending problem" in a sentence?

You can use "impending problem" to describe a situation that is about to cause difficulties. For example, "The company is preparing for the "impending problem" of increased competition.".

What's the difference between "impending problem" and "potential problem"?

"Impending problem" suggests a higher degree of certainty and imminence, while "potential problem" indicates a possibility that may or may not materialize. The former is more immediate and likely.

Are there synonyms for "impending problem" that I can use to vary my writing?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "approaching difficulty", "forthcoming issue", or "looming crisis" depending on the context and the severity of the situation.

Is "impending problem" formal or informal?

"Impending problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is frequently used in news and media. The formality largely depends on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.